TheCdeOTIMES V3-4

AUGUST 25-31, 2014

facebook.com/CagayandeOroTIMES

The

Volume 3 No. 04 CdeO

CAGAYANTIMES Lifestyle Weekly

Ms Cagayan de Oro 2014 & Fireworks Photo by: GLENN PALACIO

DE ORO

Miss Cagayan de Oro 2014 BEATRICE ALVAREZ

Higalaay Kagay-an Festival 2014 SM CITY CAGAYAN DE ORO’S PYRO FESTIVAL 2014 August 24 at the Outer Beacon Area.

Highlights inside!

2 | August 25-31, 2014 | The Cagayan de Oro TIMES

Kagay-anons pack the Divisoria area near Kiosko Kagawasan (Freedom Kiosk) to get a glimpse of the Higalaay Parade of Floats, Icons, and Civic Military Parade, August 27.

Miss Lapasan 2014 in her colorful ensemble during the Higalaay Kagay-an Carnival Street Dancing and parade

Higalaay Kagay-an Highlights:

FESTIVALPARADES2014 Photos by GLENN PALACIO

The Cagayan de Oro TIMES

|August 25-31, 2014 | 3

A participant in her elaborate set piece during the carnival Festival Mask souvenirs are for sale during Cagayan de Oro’s Fiesta Kahimunan Northern Mindanao Food & Lifestyle Show 2014 opens at SM City CdeO, August 23 and will run until August 30. theme parade and street dancing competition, August 24.

Celebration.

Liceo University’s participants in the Carnival Street Dancing event, they placed 2nd in the first-ever Cagayan de Oro Carnival Parade Competition.

Norman takes a selfie with Julee on board the Liceo U’s Dragon Boat

International Pharmaceuticals Incorporated (IPI) displays a fully mechanized float during the Higalaay Parade of Floats, Icons, and Civic Military Parade, August 27.

Ms Cagayan de Oro 2014 Beatrice Alvarez Pohl and her court greet Kagay-anons during the Higalaay Carnival Street Dancing and Parade

4 | August 25-31, 2014 | The Cagayan de Oro TIMES

A bracelet for remembrance is given by Mrs. Korina Sanchez – Roxas to the old lady.

Bags of rice were donated to a select people at Opol Misamis Oriental by Mrs. Korina Sanchez - Roxas

Rated K visits

CdeO Korina Sanchez – Roxas, TV host and wife of Secretary of the Philippine Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Manuel “Mar” Araneta Roxas visited the city of Cagayan de Oro, August 16, 2014.

Korina Sanchez’s main objective during the visit was to tape a segment on the Vjandep Pastel for her show Rated K. Sanchez also gave out 400 pairs of slippers to pupils of Patag Elementary School in Opol, Misamis Oriental. She explained that this was her gift to the children and in turn a celebratory act for the 5 happy years that she and Secretary Roxas have shared as a married couple.

Sanchez also gave out bracelets and bags of rice to the people that were present in the said school.

After her visit to Patag Elementary School and her segment in Bulua with Vjandep Pastel, she

proceeded to the Northern Mindanao Medical Center (NMMC) and donated 10 cribs. Sanchez said that she was compelled to become a blessing to others, not only in the areas near her work in Manila but all over the Philippines.

Sanchez then proceeded to a speaking at the first ever Philippine Leadership Congress - Le Maste, at the atrium of Limketkai Mall.

She gave out a brief speech about her life and how no job was too small or big for her, she explained further how knowing what you want in life and loving what you do will pave way for future success. Sanchez further explained that she came from a middle class family but with her hard work and determination, she has not only attained success but also became a blessing to the people around her. n GLENN PALACIO

Mrs. Korina Sanchez – Roxas donates 10 cribs to the Northern Mindanao Medical Center.

Mrs. Korina Sanchez visits and gives out a short talk to Le Mrs.Korina Sanchez – Roxas helps a Maste. The Le Maste was the student pick his next brand new pair first ever Philippine Leadership of slippers.

Congress.

The Cagayan de Oro TIMES

|August 25-31, 2014 | 5

6 | August 25-31, 2014 | The Cagayan de Oro TIMES | LIFESTYLE VIEWS

HAVE MY SAY

The

CAGAYANTIMES Lifestyle Weekly DE ORO

Editor Shaun Alejandrae Yap Uy

KLAUS DORING

Art Director | Layout Artist Ronald B. Mastail Photographer Glenn Palacio Marketing Staff Shan Belarmino Jessie Ubay-ubay Shade Masiar Grace Mae Beber Candy Macabale Ed Mainit Legal Counsels Atty. Mario T. Juni Atty. Roberto A. Cantago, Jr. Publisher CAGAYAN TIMES The CAGAYAN de ORO TIMES Lifestyle Weekly is published at Tanleh Bldg., Abellanosa Street, Consolacion, Cagayan de Oro City, 9000 Philippines.

It is registered with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 10 with Certificate No. 01801884, and with Business Registration Plate No. 17211 with Business License Certificate 2014-00691.

TIN No. 311-982-549-000 Tele/Fax #: (08822) 74-53-80 Find us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/CagayandeOroTIMES email us at thecagayantimes@gmail.com Member: Cagayan de Oro Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation, Inc. (Oro Chamber)

The Cagayan de Oro TIMES is now in Magazine format, making it the only weekly lifestyle mag in the city.

Like the new format? Want to place an Ad? Promote your business?

Give us a call at 0917-712-1424

MEN DON'T CRY?

S

ince I was a small boy, my whole family liked to hammer into my mind and heart the slogan "Men (Boys) don't cry!" Many incidents happened (not only!) in my life as young boy, but also later after reaching the second half of my life. Incidents with oppressed and held back tears and emotions because of the one and only reason: Men don't cry!"

I never became a whipping boy or fan of brawl and fight because I always tried to find ways not to cry. "You'll never become a real man, because a real man knows how to fight without tears!"

My thirst of knowledge let me start travelling around the world when I became 16. I learned that this silly custom seemed to exist more or less worldwide.

An Israelian soldier lost his right arm during a (nonsensical?) battle on the Golan Heights and, this wounded soldier started crying. Of course - why not?

After my family home stay in Japan some time in 1976, my "papa-san" in Kyoto couldn't hold his tears any more, when it was time to say "Sayonara". Of

course - why not?

1980 in South Africa, I became a sudden witness of a burial, because an original inhabitant family lost a child because of starving to death. The mother AND the father cried! Of course - why not?

Step by step, I experienced myself many examples, incidents, and reasons where I didn't care anymore (fortunately!) about my tears and emotions. A special place with a good or bad remembrance can make me cry even now and then. Salt dissolves in water like emotions in tears: an unjustified treatment, arrogance or ignorance of people around me, a heartfelt condolence, a very special song, a very touching situation or speech - being choked with emotions. But I also can cry because of happiness or never expected gratitude...

Are all these privileges only allowed for females? Are males only robots with hearts of stone? Objection my dear fellow creatures! Let me cry today even the reason is just because I help cutting onions and garlic for lunch!

*** Ideas, comments or suggestions? Email me: doringklaus@gmail.com or follow me in Facebook or Twitter or visit www.germanexpatinthephilippines.blogspot.com or www.klausdoringsclassicalmusic.blogspot.com.

The Cagayan de Oro TIMES

|August 25-31, 2014 | 7

ALA MODE OWEN JAEN

I

GIVING HIGALAAY A TRY

never thought the Higalaay Festival would create such an impact on me. For one, I was able to take part in one of the major events this year, the Cagayan de Oro Carnival Parade as one of the event hosts.

It may not seem much but what I saw and experienced that day is beyond the perks of being seen up on stage but experiencing firsthand the wonders of friendship and camaraderie.

The festive atmosphere of the street merrymaking invigorated everyone even with the heat and humidity that day.

You can see people from all walks of life coming together to celebrate friendship through dance and music, smiling at the sights of the performers and cheering them on as they paraded their way to the front of the stage set up at the heart of Plaza Divisoria.

The parade is indeed a show of Higalaay, a manifestation that we can come together and have clean fun.

On a personal level, the Higalaay season also was a way for me to rekindle ties and foster new friendship. The pocket events and other activities lined up during the month allowed me to mingle with a wide variety of personalities, reuniting with people I have known for years and establishing new relationships with the ones I meet along the way.

This month, I have set aside differences and did not mind affiliations just so we can all have a wonderful and eventful celebration.

This move proved to be a good thing, it unburdened me and made me appreciate how wonderful it is to put weight on good relations than petty feelings.

This indeed made this Higalaay festival a

personal journey to a better understanding of how amazing life is if we continue to become better versions of ourselves every day.

Higalaay is also a time for wonderful victories for my friends and our Liceo family.

Back to back victories in all three major beauty and personality pageants held annually in CdeO is indeed a blessing to be grateful about.

Miss Cagayan de Oro 2014, The Man of Himologan 2014, and the ultimate Barangay Gwapo for this year hail from the same university where I come from.

I may not be directly involved in all three in their bid for the big win but I share the same joy for their victory. Aside from this grandslam feat, the Liceo Dragon Boat team and their supporters from the dance companies of Liceo U emerged as second place in the Carnival Parade hurdling challenges of limited rehearsal schedule and pre-contest preparations.

Their participation was also a show of force, unity and determination of the students and staff which I am blessed to have seen and felt.

When the City rebranded the festival last year, I was wondering why. Now I do not have to seek answers for I have been able to actualize what it is like to make friends, keep friends and be friends. What I was able to experience, share and cherish this month is more than enough for me to look forward to another Higalaay in 2015.

Will it be grander and bigger? For sure it will. All it takes is for all of us to continue the friendship and embrace new ones.

More friends, More fun only in Kagay-an!

8 | August 25-31, 2014 | The Cagayan de Oro TIMES

WORDS AND NOTES DEBBIE CABAGUE

PICTURE IN MY MIND

O

ver the years, I have learned so many songs that I couldn’t even remember the lyrics of my all time favorites but somehow their tunes are stored in my brain.

Few years back I was trying to retrieve a particular favorite song but to my dismay after even searching the web I still couldn’t find it. Recently I was very busy for a launching and then again the need for an inspirational song was on the rise. I reviewed all the songs I knew but still couldn’t decide for one. It was nearly midnight when I paused and prayed “Lord, please give me a song...” Right after my prayer, the entire chorus of that song I was trying to retrieve years ago flashed completely in my thoughts and when I Googled it, voila... it was there. “ Inside of you there’s a heart full of dreams like a gold in the stream to be uncovered Inside of you lies a soul made to shine , yes a child meant to fly and discover all the wonders God can do are inside of you.” Amazing! I was teary eyed as I reviewed the entire song because the message was perfect for the students, and I knew God wanted me to share the song.

“As a child, you used to dream; there wasn't anything that you couldn't do, learned to fly on paper wings, but somebody told you dreams don't come true, some settle for a lie and fake it, and try to keep their hearts from breaking ,but you defy the odds and make it worth your going through...” As I was internalizing these lines once again it reminded me of how I started in this journey of uncovering my own gift, it was never easy because I had to surrender a lot of lies and the facade I was wearing to cross where God wanted me to be.

“Every day you face the fear with the measure of faith that you need, and even now all heaven cheers for the miracle your destined to be , true bravery is bought with sorrow life is but a gift we borrow and all the promise of tomorrow waits to be revealed...”

Furthermore I am convinced that the message of this song was not only for my students but it was also for me. It is true that every day I face my fears through His grace and my feeble faith in Him but I am encouraged that I am not alone in this journey. This life is not mine but He entrusted it to me so everything in me should be used not for worldly

gains but for His glory. Despite the everyday struggles and distractions I face as I carry on the calling that God has given me , I bear the end in mind that when I will face God one day He will say “ well done , good and faithful servant...” .

It was a great picture in mind when the lyrics were fully shown in my thoughts. The picture of a music and arts school, original compositions to inspire others, an equipped music studio, my students performing way much better than I am – these are all great pictures in my mind but the latter picture of God confirming what I’ve done here in on earth will be the greatest because it means I have finished my race well.

Many of us have earthly visions but only few have the Heavenly vision. Many are fooled and blinded by worldly wealth when the truth is life cannot be measured by the place you live and the car you drive.

The thing that really counts the day you die is who you are and what’s inside.

If you have the earthly visions in mind, have the Heavenly vision too... God’s word guarantees that its way much better than what we envision here on earth.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith; in the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing.” - 2 Timothy 4:7-8

The Cagayan de Oro TIMES

|August 25-31, 2014 | 9

Biz group in CDO to host Mindanao Food Congress 2014

T

he Cagayan de Oro Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation, Inc. (Oro Chamber) will host the Mindanao Food Congress 2014, the largest gathering of agriculture and food industry players, government policy makers, exhibitors, businessmen and consumers in Mindanao.

This year's Food Congress with the ultimate goal of aligning Mindanao Food Security in the ASEAN Market hopes to re-affirm the position of the island as the country's food basket by showcasing its agricultural products towards finding new markets and establishing industry networks.

More importantly, this conference will be an opportune time for private-public stakeholders to discuss policy issues as they prepare Mindanao for the challenges of the One ASEAN Economic Community in 2015.

Set on September 25-26, at the Luxe Hotel, the Mindanao Food Congress is also co-hosted by the city government of Cagayan de Oro, Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), National Economic Development Authority (NEDA), Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), Mindanao Business Council (MinBC), and the Chamber of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industries (CAFFINORMIN).

Meanwhile, Secretary Mar Roxas of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) supports this congress as he is one of the invited keynote speakers on the said event.

The secretary has also issued Memorandum Circular No. 2014-88 encouraging all local chief executives in Mindanao Regions to send representatives on the said congress, particularly from their respective Local Agricultural Office to participate on official business.

All DILG Regional Directors of Mindanao and the ARMM Regional Governor are also directed to disseminate the memorandum circular within their respective jurisdiction.

For any inquiries about the event, please contact the Mindanao Food Congress Secretariat at 8584068 or 858-4073. (PIA/Oro Chamber)

Ms. Jocelyn Velez (left) and Ms. Marinela Neri Velez (right) cut the ribbon for the San Ignacio Fundacion de Salud’s “Tambali ko Doc” pharmacy 28 August 2014 at the ground floor of the Lim Bldg., Don A. Velez cor. M.H. del Pilar Sts., with the assistance of BWM Group Editor-at-Large Mike Baños. Also in photo are are Dr. Meneleo Navarro, president & CEO (left back), Omar Jayson Vallejera (right back) and Merlyn P. Auxillo, head pharmacist (extreme right). (photo supplied) Primavera Residences recently awarded this year’s Miss Primavera during the Miss Cagayan de Oro 2014 coronation night held last August 23, 2014 at the Limketkai Atrium.

This year’s Miss Primavera is no other than candidate # 5, MISS NOVANMAE MARCOJOS.

10 | August 25-31, 2014 | The Cagayan de Oro TIMES | COVER STORY

T:

H G LI H IG H L A IV ST FE N -A Y A G A K HIGALAAY

Licean Wins Miss CDO 2014 Bea Alvarez Pohl, a student of Liceo de Cagayan University and the pride of Barangay Carmen was crowned as Miss Cagayan de Oro 2014 last Saturday night at the Limketkai Atrium. This 5’10 stunner also had the most special awards namely Miss The Loop, Miss Shopwise, Miss Ororama, Miss GMA Kapuso, Miss Natasha, Best in Mags Casual Wear, Best in Swimwear, and Best in Long Gown.

The first runner and Miss Tourism went to Sherra Mae Vacalares who is a teacher at Corpus Cristi School. She also won the best in talent award and the Face of Haze. In second runner up is Mitsume Aguilar. She is the Miss Camella Homes, Miss Marianne Suites, Miss Smart Sun Cellular, and Miss JCI Philippines.

Furthermore, the third runner, Miss Le Rouge Spa, and Miss Goldilocks were

ANSWERED PRAYER . Beatrice Alvarez Pohl reacts as the hosts announce her name as the new Miss Cagayan de Oro, August 23, Limketkai Atrium.

awarded to Jessica Bacot Abines. This year’s fourth runner up, Miss Sanctuary Beauty and Wellness, KFC Ambassador, and darling of the press belong to Jane Maceda.

Miss Island Souvenirs, Globe Texters Choice Award, and Miss Flawlessly U is Kor Jeanne Garces; Miss Primavera Residences, Miss To Go Travel, and Miss Photogenic is Novanmae Morcojos; and the Miss Congeniality is Princess Go. Two of Cagayan de Oro’s fashion designers received special recognitions and they are Kiko Domo for the best in fashion forward award and Albert Rivera for the best in gown creation.

Miss Cagayan de Oro 2014 was hosted by GMA Artist Enzo Pineda and co-hosted by Maxine Monasterio of ABSCBN Northern Mindanao.

n MICHAEL RAY of http://tsadagyud.com/

Miss Cagayan de Oro 2014 Beatrice Alvarez Pohl and her court.

COVER STORY |

The Cagayan de Oro TIMES

|August 25-31, 2014 | 11

4 1 0 2 o r O e d n a y a g a C s Mis All Photos by GLENN PALACIO

Miss Cagayan de Oro 2014 Beatrice Alvarez Pohl and JCI Bai Lawanen’s Gean T. Cesar in a studio photo after the coronation night, August 23, Limketkai Atrium.

Miss Cagayan de Oro 2014 Beatrice Alvarez Pohl and stylist Sheldon Frias in a studio photo after the coronation night, August 23, Limketkai Atrium.

Miss CDO Tourism 2014 Sherra Mae Vacalares

Miss CDO 2014 2nd Runner Up Mitsumi Aguilar

Miss CDO 2014 3rd Runner Up Jessica Bacot Abines

Miss CDO 2014 3rd Runner Up Jane Maceda

Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Oscar Moreno in his speech during the coronation night of Miss Cagayan de Oro 2014, August 23, Limketkai Atrium.

12 | August 25-31, 2014 | The Cagayan de Oro TIMES assistance program aimed at allowing Micro Small Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) access to better technology and more sophisticated equipment to improve the salability, production and global competitiveness of their products.

“The SSF project is aimed at assisting some 81, 221 SMEs with a good growth potential,” said Ma. Eliza A. Pabillore, DTI Misamis Oriental Provincial Director, trainings conducted,” said Liza organizer of this year’s event. “It also V. M. Alcantar, chief, Business aims to generate 200,000 new jobs all Development Division, DTI-X. “From joining regional trade fairs, over the country.”

Although the number of exhibitors many of the small enterprises have declined to 51 from 82 in the gathered sufficient exposure and previous year and the exhibit duration experience giving them confidence reduced to five days, Kahimunan to bring their products to national 2013 nevertheless registered a 74% and international trade events,” she increase in total sales. Cash sales added. declined 28% but this was more than Kahimunan Regional Trade fair has been staged as a trade event since compensated for by the astounding 641% increase in booked sales. the late 1990s but only started as an For this year, 51 small and annual event to coincide with the medium enterprises from the five Cagayan de Oro fiesta in 2007. provinces of Northern Mindanao For 2012, Kahimunan featured are showcasing the region’s best the Bamboo Cluster Showcase products at the Kahimunan Northern and “Speed Matching at a local restaurant with 101 SME participants. Mindanao 2014 Food and Lifestyle Show which concludes this weekend The activity established a market at SM City, Cagayan de Oro City. link between local suppliers and Kahimunan 2014 is a core event tourism establishments (hotels, of the Higalaay Kagay-an Festival restaurants, convenience, and 2014, the annual city fiesta festival of pasalubong stores) wherein the raw Cagayan de Oro City. material requirements of the tourism Featured products include gifts establishments’ kitchens such as and housewares, fashion accessories, vegetables, spices, fruits, processed meat and seafood were matched with processed food, beverages, home style and living, health and organic local SME suppliers. products, and furniture.

The exhibit generated PhP 838, For the first time in its four 025 sales over the week, a 15% year run, the show will recognize increase over the previous year. The Speed Matching activity and booked the Best Product Design for Housewares & Furnishings and sales generated an additional PhP Fashion Categories and the Most 127, 000 sales.

Innovative Food Product.

For the following year, Best Product Design recognizes Kahimunan shifted its focus to the exhibitors and manufacturers DTI’s Shared Service Facilities who develop innovative and (SSF) focusing on Bamboo, Abaca, distinctive designs that combine processed food, and coffee and coco the ideals of form and function. coir products. SSF is a livelihood

KAHIMUNAN 2014

Food & Lifestyle Fair

at SM CITY CDO

N

orthern Mindanao’s signature trade fair for small and medium enterprises winds up this weekend at SM City Cagayan de Oro looking forward to global competitiveness with the integration of the ASEAN market next year.

An annual regional trade fair organize by the Department of Trade and Industry Region 10 (DTI), the “Kahimunan (Creations of Northern Mindanao) Regional Trade Fair” features the SME products of Bukidnon, Camiguin, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental and Misamis Oriental from processed food, gifts and housewares, fashion accessories, beverages, home style and living, and health and organic products.

Kahimunan is a native term meaning “gathering”. The Kahimunan is a marketing event to enable MSME’s to promote and access new markets for their products. The participants are the recipients of trade trainings and product development seminars prior to the exhibit.

“Kahimunan Regional Trade Fair is an annual market promotion event of Northern Mindanao to support MSME s in the region. It is a cost-effective marketing strategy to generate sales and meet new buyers as well as existing customers face-toface. It also provides opportunities to test the market to get immediate market feedback on new product designs or new products developed through product development and

The Cagayan de Oro TIMES

|August 25-31, 2014 | 13

Ribbon Cutting Green Pastures Corp Booth

Judging products Checking out the merchandise

The criteria for selection include design, aesthetic and function appeal, market potential (40%), quality and workmanship (25%), innovation (25%) and materials/ sustainability and value-added (10%).

The criteria for selecting the Most Innovative Food Product

include Product Innovation (50%) and packaging (50%).

An maximum of 7 points will be awarded to exhibitors who would be able to comply with the following requirements: FDA License to operate, Organic Certification, Halal Certification, HACCP Certification, Export

Potential, For Health and Wellness, and 100% use of local ingredients.

The Awards will include a 50% subsidy of the participation fee/ booth rental for Kahimunan 2015, promotion through press releases, inclusion in the special setting for Kahimunan 2015. n MIKE BAﾃ前S

14 | August 25-31, 2014 | The Cagayan de Oro TIMES | FEATURE

Ribbon cutting for new JRBGH East Wing (DOH) Building 25 August 2014

DOH Usec Nemesio T. Gako

J.R. BORJA GENERAL HOSPITAL:

Quality hospital care for the poor

T

he J.R. Borja General Hospital of Cagayan de Oro City is aiming to be the country’s premier local government hospital by 2016.

During a presentation made during the JRBGH’s 51st founding anniversary last August 25, Dr. Ramon M. Nery, Hospital Executive Officer, said this lofty target should be attained “with fiscal autonomy and preferential option for the poor and under privileged.”

“The magnitude and complexity of problems confronting organizations is relative to the person/s solving them,” noted Dr. Nery, who was cited as the 2011 The Outstanding Filipino (TOFIL) Awardee for Community/Public Service. “Our country is not devoid of heroes. There will always be a Filipino willing to stand up and be counted when needed.”

The TOFIL Award was conceived by Junior Chamber International (JCI) Senate Philippines in 1988 to institutionalize public recognition of men and women, 41 years of age and over, whose exemplary achievements are worthy of emulation.

As one of the main items listed in the administration’s Eight-Point Agenda, the Moreno administration first placed the J.R. Borja General Hospital under the management of the City Health Office and Dr. Fe C. Bongcas. The synergy of the two agencies which had previously operated independently of each other was immediately evident.

According to figures presented

by Dr. Nery, the JRBGH’s historical bed occupancy rate immediately improved for the first seven months of 2014 to 135.81% from 78.46% in the same period of the previous year. The patients’ average length of stay likewise lengthened to 5.54 days from the previous 4.47.

“From being underutilized, we are now operating at over capacity,” noted Dr. Nery.

Comparative figures from hospital operations likewise show a remarkable improvement.

For the 1st semester of 2014 (Jan-June), in-patients attended to jumped 40% to 4,439 from only 3,176 in the previous period.

Outpatients also increased 16.3% to 16,476 from the previous period, and a remarkable

60% compared to the same period of the year before under the previous management.

Emergency room cases attended to increased 15.3% to 11,435 while operations rocketed 50% to 532 from the previous period, including 73 surgical cases done recently by the visiting Interplast Australia and New Zealand surgical team under the Rotary Club of Cagayan de Oro’s “Operation Put-A-Smile”.

To enable the JRBGH to cope with the increase in patients attended to, a total of 32 new employees were hired to bolster the existing plantilla of 61, including visiting staff nurses (20), visiting consultants (12), physicians (2), nursing attendants (2), medical technologists (2) and a pharmacist and engineer. Total hospital staff to date now number 93.

“We have a power house team to do the management and as our staff sees the progress we have gained, we now have their commitment and motivation,” Dr. Nery said.

Besides Dr. Nery, the JRBGH executive team also includes Dr. Evelyn C. Perez, Chief of Hospital; Dr. Rose P. Salta, Asst. Chief of Hospital; Dr. Ramon Moreno, Chairman of the City Health Board and Dr. Ignacio Moreno, consultant.

Most impressive perhaps as an indication of its capability to sustain its gains is the improvement in the hospital’s finances.

“Total hospital income for January to July 14, 2014 further increased by PhP

FEATURE |

The Cagayan de Oro TIMES

|August 25-31, 2014 | 15

Brand new gurneys at the new ER of JR Borja Gen Hospital

New ER equipment at JR Borja General Hospital

11.838-million, or 176 percent over the PhP 6.745-M for the same period last year,” Dr. Nery noted, citing the key role played by the City Health Insurance Office under Ms, Ma. Lourdes Gaane.

Compared to the same period in 2012, total hospital income in 2013 also posted a 136% hike mostly due to the increasing share of Philhealth remittances to 77% compared to 56% in 2012 and even further to 81% for 2014, he added.

“We now also have the monetary assistance program from the DOH which enables us to accommodate charity patients who are given monetary assistance (whom we have previously been unable to enroll),” Dr. Nery explained. “It is not only hospital financing that enables us to do this, but even more so the efficient management of the hospital.”

“Leadership is just as important to sustain our gains,” Mayor Oscar M. Moreno said. “The people will look for leaders who will sustain what we started.”

“If the local chief executive does not give priority to health, it becomes a problem,” said Dr. Ramon Moreno. “So we at the local health board will try to institutionalize a strong system that will continue as part of the local health system regardless of who the local chief executive is.”

Health Undersecretary Nemesio T. Gako concurs, noting DOH can only do so much since it is the LGU actually implements health care systems “on the ground”.

“The actual action is on the ground.

DOH can assist in terms of policies, guidelines, operations, we can train people, provide equipment, etc. but we are happy the chief executive now is making health a priority,” he said. “It’s a great difference to have continuity and sustainability on

the ground, and how the institution and the system will be operated by the people themselves.”

During the JRBGH’s 51st founding anniversary last August 25, the DOH as represented by Usec. Gako turned over to the city government the new three storey East Wing (DOH) building which houses its new Emergency Room (ER), laboratory, X-ray, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) on the ground floor; nine wards (with six beds per ward) in the second floor, and 12 private rooms and four suites in the third floor.

"The East Wing (DOH) building is a P45-million DOH Health Facility Enhancement Program (HFEP) infrastructure project,” Dr. Nery said.

"The Cagayan de Oro City Government provided a P14.6-million counterpart fund to purchase hospital beds, machines and equipment for the new building. It is fully air conditioned to give indigent patients the best accommodation possible."

The HFEP is a banner program of the Aquino administration which aims to upgrade health facilities and train health professionals to improve people’s access to quality health care. Previously known as the Philippine Hospital Development Plan (PHPD), it has a PhP 46.5-billion budget to develop 256 LGU District Hospitals, 70 provincial hospitals, 10 city hospitals and 70 DOH-retained hospitals.

Associate Justice Romulo V. Borja, representing the family of his late father, Mayor Justiniano “Tiñing” Borja, was present for the turnover and recalled how the 100-bed JRBGH was established by the late mayor as the “Cagayan de Oro City Hospital” in 1963. It is the only local government hospital serving Cagayan de

Oro City which has an estimated 2014 population of 669,443.

The hospital was renamed the "J.R.Borja Memorial City Hospital" by Mayor Jesus V. Seriña in 1967 in honor of its founder who passed away in 1964. City Ordinance No. 10209-2006 later renamed it “J.R. Borja General Hospital”.

In 1990, then City Mayor Pablo P. Magtajas announced plans to upgrade JRBGH to a modern Level III hospital with a 500-bed capacity 3-storey building.

In 1998-1999 construction started on the 3 storey South Wing Bldg with funding from the Priority Development Assistant Fund of then Sen. Aquilino Q. Pimentel, Jr. However, the Emano administration chose not to pursue the project and it was only in 2005 when the DOH provided funds to complete the 3-storey South Wing building. In 2010, the initial utilization of the patient wards was started but it was only when the Moreno administration took over in 2012 that the project was resumed.

The Operating Room/Delivery Room/ Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) complex was transferred to the South Wing ground floor in June 2013 and its 3rd floor inaugurated last April 3, 2014.

Construction of the East Wing building started in January 2013 with PhP 20-M from the HFEP. The second and third floors followed in March with the release of the second tranche of PhP 20-M and the whole edifice completed in March 2014 with the release of the final PhP5-M. The PhP14.6-M local counterpart of the LGU was used to complete the 2nd floor and other civil works in July 2014. n STORY & PHOTOS BY MIKE BAÑOS, Editorat-Large

16 | August 25-31, 2014 | The Cagayan de Oro TIMES

The Cagayan de Oro TIMES

|August 25-31, 2014 | 17

18 | August 25-31, 2014 | The Cagayan de Oro TIMES | DIRECTORY

Grab a FREE copy of The Cagayan de Oro TIMES at our partner establishments:

R.O.X. CENTRIO MALL THE TRAVEL CLUB - LIMKETKAI, CENTRIO, SM CDO THE NORTH FACE - SM CDO PRIMAVERA RESIDENCES - CONDO LOBBY, SM BOOTH CAPRICHO CAFE - RODELSA HALL, LICEO UNIVERSITY BUFFALO BAR& GRILL - DON APOINAR VELEZ ST, CDO BREWBERRY CAFE - CHAVEZ VELEZ ST,CDO SLERS HAM& CAFE - SOUTH BANK PLAZA,CDO BARBRA PEARL - 238 PADERO BLDG VELEZ ST,CDO SENTRO1850 - CHAVEZ VELEZ ST,CDO BARKADAHAN GRILL - DIVISORIA ARCADE,CDO FILLINVEST ONE OASIS - DON A VELEZ ST, CDO ASIAN HOME - TIANO BROS ST CHAVEZ ST,CDO GLOBAL CHIPS - #49 DON TIRSO ST,CDO VIP HOTEL - DON APOLINAR VELEZ ST,CDO NHOTEL - HI-WAY KAUSWAGAN CDO ICONIC FASHION - KALAMBAGUHAN ST,CDO OCTOGON - GOMEZ VELEZ CDO PRYCE PLAZA –CARMEN HILL CDO GERRY’S GRILL - LIMKETKAI MALL CDO KENNY ROGERS - LIMKETKAI MALL CDO YELLOW CUB PIZZA - ROSARIO DRIVE LIMKETKAI SUNBURST RESTAURANT - ROSARIO DRIVE LIMKETKAI DESMARK - DON APOLINAR VELEZ CDO KAGAY-ANON RESTAURANT - ROSARIO DRIVE LIMKETKAI RAMEN TAI RESTO - ROSARIO DRIVE LIMKETKAI MISSY BON-BON - ROSARIO DRIVE LIMKETKAI HYUNDAI - HI-WAY KAUSWAGAN CDO MAZDA - HI-WAY KAUSWAGAN CDO FORD - HI-WAY KAUSWAGAN CDO SUBARU - HI-WAY KAUSWAGAN CDO SKILLS MASTER INSTITUTE - CAPISTRANO ST.CDO JRS EXPRESS - TIANO STREET CDO MOREBITES PIZZA - TIANO DEL PILAR CDO DEAR MANOK - 153 AKUT ST,TIANO BROS CORNER COFFEE WORKS - LIMKETKAI, ROSARIO ARCADE MARIANNE SUITES - LUNA ST. CHICKEN INASAL - MACAHAMBUS SLERS HAM & CAFE - VELEZ ST. YAMAHA MOTORS - VELEZ ST. SAMSUNG CENTER - VELEZ ST. WE LOVE EQUIPMENT - ST DOMINIQUE KAUSWAGAN RICH MANOR PENSION HOUSE - CORRALES AVE PARASAT - LIMKETKAI CENTER ROSARIO ,CDO LOCAL WAT-EVER - CORRALES AVE CORNER ,CDO PSALMS MUSIC LAB - ENGRACIA BLDG CORRALES AVE.CDO XENTRO GRILL - CORRALES ST AVE TITA FANNIE’S GRILL - CORRALES ST YACAPIN HOUSE OF TRAVEL - CENTRIO MALL LICEO DE CAGAYAN UNIVERSITY - CARMEN RIVER VIEW HOTEL - CARMEN GAISANO CITY - CORRALES-RECTO AVE MAX RESTAURANT - LIMKETKAI DRIVE MISSY BON-BON - CENTRIO MALL TOUCH& HEAL - LIMKETKAI DRIVE CDO SUZUKI - KAUSWAGAN CDO ISUZU - LAPASAN CDO MITSUBISHI - TABLON CDO HONDA - HI-WAY KAUSWAGAN CDO TOYOTA - HI-WAY KAUSWAGAN CDO EMCOR - GUSA CDO CAT MONARK - HI-WAY KAUSWAGAN CDO

HOUSE FOR RENT Furnished, Unique All Stone Walls – Cool!

Beautiful Balcony w/ Overlooking view, Private, Peaceful 1 Bedroom, 1 KM before SM, 15,000 per month

Contact 0926-392-2933

APPARTELLE FOR SALE APPARTELLE FOR SALE LOCATED @ MACTAN CEBU NEAR IMPERIAL PALACE IDEAL FOR HOTEL, SCHOOL, SPA LOT AREA 1,541 SQM WITH 13 ROOMS, FURNISH, BLDGS., LOBBY, OFFICE BUILT 2007, JAPANESE AMBIANCE GARDEN, FLOOR AREA 400 SQM ALONG MARIBAGO, MACTAN, CEBU 30M (NEGOTIABLE) OWNER LEAVING, CALL # 0915-372-0910; 0917-853-5958 VIEW IT ON YOUTUBE; HIROS APPARTTELE, MACTAN For Sale Hillsborough Pointe CDO: beside XU near SM; lot area: 395 sqm. phase 4 lot 2b @ 6,500per sqm , call #0917-853-5958

LINDE - HI-WAY KAUSWAGAN CDO PARASAT – CORRALES AVE ST.CDO PUEBLO DE ORO - MASTERSON AVENUE ST.CDO MENZE ORCHARD - MANOLO FORTICH BUKIDNON DOC ALTERNATIBO - JULIO PACANA ST.LICO-AN CDO CHANANTON BED & BREAKFAST CANON DHUB - LIMKETKAI MALL SONY CENTER - LIMKETKAI MALL VIENNA KAFFEEHAUS - VELEZ ST. KATHRYN’S BAKESHOP - DIVISORIA ARCADE, CDO LEXY’S SWEET KITCHEN - DIVISORIA ARCADE, CDO ROY’S BISTRO - DIVISORIA ARCADE, CDO CECIL’S BAKESHOP - DIVISORIA ARCADE, CDO HANABEL BAKERY CAFE - DIVISORIA ARCADE, CDO RED RIBBON - DIVISORIA ARCADE, CDO WANG’S TEA FUZION - DIVISORIA ARCADE, CDO TOURIST ASSISTANCE CENTER - DIVISORIA ARCADE, CDO POP ROCK BAKESHOP - PABAYO BLDG., TIANO ST. BO’S CAFE - CENTRIO

The Cagayan de Oro TIMES

Club featuring the brand World Traveller supported CDO’s most prestigious pageant, Ms. Cagayan De Oro 2014.

The Travel Club provided the candidates best travel tips and packing solutions through a short course called "Travel 101” conducted by The Travel Club Centrio’s Store Supervisor Neil Fernandez during the candidates visit to sponsors in Centrio last July 5, 2014.

Cagayan de Oro's aspiring beauty queens got first-hand information and experienced how World Traveller can bring ease and definitely simplify travel amidst the stressful travel situation in and out the travel essentials. country.

Giving the urban Winners of this year’s nomads and globe Ms. Cagayan de Oro 2014 got trotters’ reliable companion for any type of exclusive World Traveller bags travel they will embark on. from The Travel Club.

In Northern Mindanao, From leisure to business, World Traveller definitely World Traveller bags and accessories are being sold at has a perfect match from the following outlets: spinner luggage (both The Travel Club G/F of SM soft and hard side cases), CDO, The Travel Club G/F of functional business/ict bags and cool accessories. Limketkai Mall, The Travel Club Level 2 of Centrio Mall.

This year, The Travel

TRAVEL 101 True to the proposition of The Travel Club “No One Knows Travel Like We Do”, Primer owned brand World Traveler has given Northern Mindanao up to date travel solutions.

With the passion of Primer’s research and development Team, World Traveller continues to bring the best selections of the most durable, functional and stylish

|August 25-31, 2014 | 19

August 25-31, 2014| The Cagayan de Oro TIMES